Garth R. Andrus Knihy

Organizations facing digital disruption must prioritize people and processes over technology. As digital technologies challenge businesses of all sizes, managers often seek technological solutions to remain competitive. This guide emphasizes that successful navigation of digital disruption hinges on organizational changes rather than just tech implementation. The authors contend that digital transformation is fundamentally about people, advocating for shifts in organizational dynamics and work methodologies. Merely selecting the right technologies is insufficient for success; fostering a company culture that embraces agility, risk tolerance, and experimentation is crucial. Drawing from four years of research with over 16,000 participants and interviews with leaders from Walmart, Google, and Salesforce, the authors introduce the concept of digital maturity, which involves leveraging new technological opportunities. They explore essential aspects of digital transformation, such as cultivating a digital environment, promoting intentional collaboration, and nurturing an experimental mindset. Understanding an organization's "digital DNA" is vital for transitioning from merely "doing digital" to "being digital." As digital disruption continues to evolve, the insights provided will remain relevant for workers navigating multiple waves of change throughout their careers. This work is part of the Management on the Cutting Edge series,